Gastroenterology

Abstract

Specific data included in questions might be a set of liver function tests (LFTs) (know the various patterns of LFTs and their corresponding diagnosis), the INR (a gaugeof liver failure) or some inflammatory markers (WCC, CRP and ESR). The interpretation of stool cultures results is fairly self-evident although do not forget to ask for microscopy for ova, oocytes and parasites in a travellers’ diarrhoea! Be aware that the indications for abdominal X-ray in GI disease are few, and this investigation should only be requested where a specific pathology, such as toxic megacolon in acute colitis or a perforated duodenal ulcer, is being considered.